Italian  celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo has reappeared on social media to promote his latest  cookbook, despite facing a wave of misconduct allegations. 

The 48-year-old TV personality, known for his bold and humorous on-screen persona,

shared a cooking demonstration on Instagram featuring a honey-glazed cod recipe, just as ITV faces increasing pressure to address the accusations against him.

Gino’s Social Media Comeback

In his latest Instagram post, Gino showcased a step-by-step guide on how to prepare honey-glazed cod with lemon and garlic.

The post included a short clip of his dog and ended with him tasting the dish.

He captioned it: “Perfect recipe for Valentine’s Day… Super Easy & Super Tasty.” The seemingly lighthearted post comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the chef, as ITV is being urged to clarify its response to multiple allegations of misconduct.

Allegations and ITV’s Response

Reports have surfaced claiming that Gino is facing over 40 allegations of inappropriate and intimidating behavior spanning 12 years, accusations he has firmly denied. The controversy has put ITV under scrutiny, with critics demanding answers about whether the network ignored past complaints.

According to The Sun, one woman claimed she raised concerns about Gino’s behavior in 2018, but ITV failed to take action. Additionally, several staff members on This Morning allegedly reported issues with Gino’s conduct over a decade ago. A source reportedly stated that concerns were often dismissed, as Gino’s cheeky on-screen personality was seen as part of his appeal.

In response, ITV stated:

“Where a complaint is made to ITV or serious concerns are raised, we will look into it, and if we find that something inappropriate has happened, we will take action.”

Despite ITV’s reassurances, the broadcaster remains under pressure to explain why previous complaints were not adequately addressed.

Accusations of ITV Covering for Gino

Some individuals have accused ITV and other production companies of protecting Gino to maintain their financial investment in him. ITV has since removed him from upcoming projects, but past shows featuring Gino remain available on its streaming platform, ITVX. Critics argue that keeping his content available sends the wrong message about accountability.

Dr. Charlotte Proudman, founder of Right to Equality, criticized ITV’s handling of the situation, stating:

“It is particularly concerning that ITV continues to platform D’Acampo’s shows on ITVX – including those where complaints were reportedly made. This sends a damaging message to victims and the wider industry.”

Gino D’Acampo’s Response to the Allegations

Gino has strongly denied all allegations, calling them “deeply upsetting.” In a statement, he addressed the claims, saying:

“I have been told by ITN News that allegations have been made about me acting inappropriately, some dating back over ten years ago. I have never been made aware of these matters previously, and the allegations are firmly denied.

I would not do anything that I thought would upset or distress anyone. This is simply not in my nature. I do not recognize the version of events being put to me.”

He also claimed that ITV executives had continued to support and commission him for major  TV projects over the years, further questioning the validity of the recent claims.

Industry Backlash and  Celebrity Reactions

The allegations against Gino have sparked debate within the entertainment industry, with some stars speaking out in support of him while others call for accountability. Actress Vicky Entwistle, best known for playing Janice Battersby on Coronation Street, took to social media to defend the chef.

“I don’t know this man personally, therefore have no reason to stick my neck out in his defense. BUT!!! ITV played that man for all he was worth… cheeky, naughty, foreign, hilarious!!! It all fitted in 10 years ago… now with a new woke agenda, they crucify him?!???”

This is not the first time Entwistle has criticized ITV, as she previously compared Coronation Street to a “cult” and accused network bosses of creating a toxic work environment.

Future Uncertain for Gino D’Acampo

In the wake of the allegations, reports indicate that Gino has been axed from ITV programming and that the network has distanced itself from him. However, MailOnline reports that the chef has vowed never to work with ITV again, making it unclear whether he was fired or chose to walk away.

The allegations against Gino D’Acampo have stirred significant controversy, with ongoing discussions about accountability in the entertainment industry. While the chef continues to deny the claims, the pressure on ITV to address its past handling of complaints remains high.

For now, Gino appears to be focusing on his culinary brand, but the impact of these allegations on his long-term career remains to be seen.